Course Description
Apocalyptic literature from its origins in the sixth and fifth centuries BCE down to its flourishing in Hellenistic and Roman times. Texts to be studied include Isaiah 24-27, 40-66, Zechariah 9-14, Joel, Malachi, Daniel, I Enoch, IV Ezra, Baruch, Qumran material, Mark 13 and the Book of Revelation. Questions bearing on contemporary theological significance will also be discussed.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Additional readings, work in the original languages (primarily Hebrew), a research paper, and extensive examinations to reflect the additional responsibilities.
Athena Title
APOCALYPTIC LIT
Prerequisite
Junior or senior standing or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered every even-numbered year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
1. To expose the student to the history of scholarship of apocalyptic literature, including the methodologies of literary, source, form and traditio-historical criticism. 2. To introduce the student to the origin of the apocalyptic genre and its relation to prophetic literature. 3. To instruct the student in proper methods of interpreting the apocalyptic corpus. The student will be expected to demonstrate his/her ability to interpret apocalyptic literature in regard to its Sitz-im-Leben including historical and sociological aspects. 4. To require the student to demonstrate his/her mastery of the material through a term paper project and examinations which include essay questions. Communicate Effectively through Writing To strengthen skills in written composition, analysis, and presentation by means of projects such as essays, papers, reports, and examinations. Computer Literacy To enhance and facilitate computer literacy by the use of word processing, the web, email, and OASIS through research, preparation, and presentation of work such as oral class reports and completion of written assignments. Critical Thinking To foster critical thinking by engaging in activities such as classroom discussion and debate, essay examinations, and oral presentations. Moral Reasoning (Ethics) To assist in the continued development of moral and ethical reasoning and reflection by encouraging creative thinking regarding individual and community concerns and needs, the challenging of prejudices and stereotypes, and examining rational and ethical bases of constructive social interactions.
Topical Outline
I. Introduction to Biblical Studies in general; Apocalyptic Studies in specific II. Ancient Near Eastern Antecedents: Persian, Hebrew, Egyptian III. Examples from the Hebrew Bible A. Isaiah 24-27, 40-66 B. Ezekiel 37-48; Zechariah 9-14 C. Daniel 7-12; Joel, Malachi IV. Jewish examples from 100 B. C. E. to 100 C. E. A. Qumran War Scroll B. 1 Enoch 37-71 C. 4 Ezra; 2 Baruch V. Early Christian Examples A. Matthew 24-25; Mark 13; Luke 6 B. The Revelation to John C. The Shepherd of Hermas VI. Course Summation & Conclusion
Syllabus